Bag Policy
THE VALLEY EVENT DAY BAG POLICY
To ensure the safety and security of entry of all spectators, Charlton Athletic enforces a strict bag size policy limiting the size and types of bags that the club allows to enter The Valley on an event day.
PERMITTED BAGS
Only bags that meet the following criteria will be allowed into the stadium:
- Maximum size: 45cm (height) x 35cm (width) x 15cm (depth). This is equivalent to approximately 24 litres of volume and includes standard-sized backpacks, rucksacks, tote bags, messenger bags, sling bags and laptop bags (within the dimensions stated).
- Transparent bags can be used and reusable, transparent bags are available to purchase in the club shop, priced at 80p, allowing supporters to bring their belongings or newly purchased merchandise into the stadium in these bags. You must not put any personal bags that do not meet the criteria into these bags.
PROHIBITED BAGS
The following items are not permitted:
- Large backpacks, rucksacks, holdalls, suitcases or luggage of any kind, hard-sided containers (coolers, briefcases, etc) and sports bags or gym bags exceeding size limits.
An exception may be made for medical bags (subject to inspection and approval) and baby changing bags (for those attending with infants). All exception items will be thoroughly searched upon entry.
EXEMPTIONS
To apply for a medical exemption, please fill in this form up to 48 hours before kick-off of the fixture you are looking to get the exemption for.
SECURITY SCREENING
All bags are subject to mandatory security checks. Fans attending the event may be required to open and display contents with refusal to comply potentially resulting in denied entry.
STORAGE POLICY
A new bag drop service is now in operation. Located at the Covered End Reception, the bag drop will open for two hours before scheduled kick off. Bags which exceed the size limits can be stored for £5 per item.
Stadium security staff reserve the right to refuse entry for non-compliance.
REVIEW
This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure alignment with safety regulations and best practices.
See below for a list of frequently asked questions about the club's bag policy.
Why do Charlton have a bag policy?
Bag restrictions are increasingly being introduced at football grounds and other major venues as part of wider measures to improve safety and security on matchdays.
Large or bulky bags can take up valuable space in crowded seating areas and concourses, obstruct walkways and create potential trip hazards. Keeping bags to a manageable size also helps maintain clear access routes, which is particularly important if supporters need to leave an area quickly in an emergency.
Limiting the size of bags brought into the stadium also allows security checks to be carried out more efficiently and can help improve the flow of supporters entering the ground.
The policy is therefore intended to support a safer and more secure matchday environment for everyone attending The Valley.
Is the bag policy related to Martyn’s Law?
The bag policy forms part of the club’s wider approach to improving safety and security at The Valley, including preparations for Martyn’s Law.
Martyn’s Law is designed to help venues improve their security and be better prepared for the risk of terrorist attacks. Measures such as bag checks can form part of these wider security arrangements.
The bag policy also has wider matchday safety benefits, helping to keep walkways and seating areas clear, reduce potential trip hazards and make security checks more effective.
What is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law is new legislation designed to improve security and preparedness at venues and events across the UK.
The law is expected to come into force in Spring 2027. It will require certain venues and events to take steps to improve their preparedness for terrorist attacks.
It is named after Martyn Hett, one of 22 people who lost their lives in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017. His mother, Figen Murray, subsequently campaigned for improved security at public venues and helped drive the introduction of the legislation.
What is the new permitted bag size?
From Saturday, October 10th, supporters will be permitted to bring bags measuring up to 45cm (height) x 35cm (width) x 15cm (depth) into The Valley.
This is equivalent to approximately 24 litres of volume and includes standard-sized backpacks, rucksacks and tote bags.
The 45cm x 35cm x 15cm dimensions are the definitive size limit for bags entering the stadium.
When does the new size limit come into effect?
The updated size allowance will come into effect from the Bristol City fixture on Saturday, October 10th and will apply for the remainder of the 2026/27 season.
Does the policy apply to away supporters too?
Yes. The bag policy applies to all supporters attending fixtures at The Valley, including both home and away supporters.
Can I bring a transparent bag?
Yes. Transparent bags are permitted, provided they are within the maximum dimensions of 45cm x 35cm x 15cm. Reusable transparent bags can be used, and these are also available to purchase from the club shop.
What happens if my bag is too big?
Bags larger than the permitted dimensions will not be allowed into the stadium. This includes large rucksacks, holdalls and suitcases.
Supporters are therefore advised to check their bag is within the permitted dimensions before travelling to The Valley.
Is there somewhere I can leave my bag if it is too large?
Yes. A Bag Drop service is available at the Covered End reception on matchdays for supporters who are unable to bring their bag into the stadium.
The service will be available from two hours before kick-off and costs a flat fee of £5 per item.
Will my bag be searched?
Yes. All bags brought into The Valley remain subject to security checks upon entry, regardless of their size.
Why has the club changed the policy?
The club has listened to feedback from supporters, Fan Advocates and Charlton Athletic Supporters' Trust following the introduction of the updated policy.
The transitional size of 45cm x 35cm x 15cm will allow supporters more time to adjust to the policy while retaining the safety and security measures that the club has introduced.
Will the bag size change again in the future?
The club will continue to review the policy throughout the remainder of the 2026/27 season and will provide further information ahead of the 2027/28 campaign.